Local Linlithgow Constituency MSP, Fiona Hyslop, hosted an event on Wednesday 22nd June in Parliament to highlight the work of Warmworks, the managing agent of the Warmer Homes Scotland Scheme. Warmworks helps with funding and support to households across Scotland, including in West Lothian, who are struggling to stay warm and keep on top of energy bills.
Warmer Homes Scotland is the Scottish Government’s national fuel poverty scheme which has supported hundreds of people in West Lothian since its launch in 2015, with each of the homes saving an average of £265 on their energy bills.
Speaking after the event in Parliament, Fiona said,
“I was very pleased to host an event in Parliament to highlight Warmworks Scotland who are the managing agent of the Scottish Government’s Warmer Homes Scotland Scheme and to hear more about their work.
“I was pleased to give the opening remarks and to hear from the Minister for Zero Carbon Buildings, Active Travel and Tenants Rights Patrick Harvie MSP and Ross Armstrong Warmworks Chief Executive who both spoke about the energy price crisis and the growing need and demand for energy efficiency in homes. Ross Armstrong of Warmworks warned that he expects now with the energy price crisis that 30% of Scotland’s population could fall into fuel poverty.
“The highlight of the evening was hearing from Warmworks customers Louise and Philip Hodge who shared how the energy efficiency work Warmworks have carried out on their home transformed it and that not only did it deliver better quality heating in their home but also helped bring down their energy bills.
“West Lothian’s population has seen a large increase in recent years of young families and older people. These groups, many of whom may already be living on the breadline, are often the worst hit by energy crises, with many people having to choose between eating or heating.
“The support Warmworks offer to my constituents and to those across Scotland, is a lifeline, particularly with today’s soaring living costs. Not only does a warm house have its health benefits, it also impacts mental health and wellbeing, reducing stress and social isolation.
“The work of this scheme is also an important component in Scotland’s Just Transition to Net Zero as it is focused on reducing the demand for energy overall and introducing renewable heating measures to decarbonise people’s heating supply.
“On behalf of my many constituents who have already received help through the Warmer Homes Scotland Scheme, I would to thank Warmworks for ensuring those who need it most and can afford it the least, are being supported to stay warmer and more comfortable in their own homes.”
ENDS